Are you a new Amazon seller trying to navigate the world of Amazon barcodes? 

You will admit that Amazon barcodes like UPCs, GTIN, FNSKU, and more can seem confusing especially if you're just starting out.

‍

As an Amazon seller, it is important to familiarize yourself with these barcodes to ensure your products meet the required standards and are ready for shipping. 

‍

In this article, we will look at all the types of Amazon codes you need to know and how to use them. We will also look at how you can buy UPC codes and highlight some Amazon labeling and shipping requirements to take note of. 

Types of Amazon Barcodes 

Let's look at the different types of Amazon barcodes you will need to know while selling on the Amazon marketplace: 

‍

1. GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)
2. UPC (Universal Product Code)
3. EAN (European Article Number)
4. FNSKU (Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit)
5. ASIN (Amazon Standard Identification Number)

Amazon barcodes: GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)

GTIN, or Global Trade Item Number, is an umbrella term that includes several barcode formats, including UPC, EAN, and others. Developed by the international organization GS1, it is a standardized system for identifying trade items across global supply chains. GTINs are designed to help with an efficient lookup of product information in databases, usually through barcode scanners. Each unique product you sell on Amazon should have its own unique GTIN.

‍

GTINs come in four main types:

‍

• GTIN-12: GTIN-12 is primarily used in North America. It is a 12-digit number intended for scanning at the point of sale and is synonymous with UPC.
• GTIN-8: It is mainly used outside of North America. It is an 8-digit number that is suitable for point-of-sale scanning of small items.
• GTIN-13: This is a 13-digit number predominantly used outside of North America, intended for scanning at the point of sale. It is synonymous with EAN and is the only type of GTIN that you can encode in the EAN-13 barcode. 
• GTIN-14: This GTIN barcode is always 14 digits in length, and is used to identify trade item groupings, such as cases of products or inner packs. It is not used for point-of-sale. 

Amazon barcodes: UPC (Universal Product Code)

The Universal Product Code (UPC) is one of the most widely recognized barcode systems globally. It consists of a series of numbers that uniquely identify products sold in stores. Each UPC has a unique 12-digit number, divided into five segments:

• The first digit indicates the type of item.
• The next five digits represent the manufacturer identification number.
• The following five digits are the product identification number.
• The last digit is a checksum for error checking.

‍

When you register for a UPC number, you get a scannable barcode. You need to have a UPC number to list products on the Amazon marketplace. In other words, you cannot sell products on Amazon without a UPC. 

Also, UPCs serve as a unique identifier for products, making it easier to differentiate among the thousands of products sold on Amazon all over the world. 

Where can you buy UPCs for Amazon? 

To purchase UPCs for Amazon, it's crucial that you follow Amazon's requirements and comply with its Terms of Service. The safest and most reliable way to get UPCs for Amazon is directly from GS1, a non-profit global organization that manages authentic product barcodes for companies all over the world. Here's how you can buy a UPC from GS1:

‍

First, go to the GS1 official website and navigate to the section where you can apply for a barcode.

Look for the option to "Apply for a Barcode" on the GS1 website. This process involves filling out an application form with details about your product and company. This ensures that your UPCs are registered under your brand name, making it easy to get registered under the Amazon Brand Registry. 

GTIN exemption for Amazon

You can list these products without a UPC, EAN, or other GTINs with a GTIN exemption. Amazon provides GTIN exemptions for certain types of products like private label brands, generic or unbranded products, handmade items, unbranded products, etc.

To apply, you will need a letter or a list of sample products that confirm that your products do not have a GTIN. You will need to also provide a link or website showing the products. 

To apply, use the search function in Amazon Seller Central to find the option to apply for a GTIN exemption. If you’re applying as a 'Generic' product, you will need to provide images proving the absence of a brand name on the product or packaging.

‍

Once approved, the exemption applies to all new products under the same brand or category. Amazon recommends that you wait 24 hours after receiving approval to ensure the exemption is processed and updated in their system.

‍

Amazon barcodes: EAN (European Article Number)

European Article Number (EAN) is a 13-digit number similar to the UPC but is used internationally, especially outside North America. Like UPCs, EANs are divided into segments, with the first digit indicating the country of origin and the rest of the digits representing the manufacturer and product information. EANs are commonly used in Europe and many other regions around the world.

We recommend that you only get an EAN through the official GS1 authority for EAN codes - GS1 UK. 

Amazon barcodes: FNSKU (Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit)

The Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit (FNSKU) is an Amazon-specific identifier that works as its own “UPC barcode”. This barcode is used within Amazon’s fulfillment centers to track inventory and link a product to a specific seller.

If you’re using Amazon's fulfillment services, each variation of your product (e.g., size, color) receives its own FNSKU. This ensures that each product can be individually identified allowing Amazon to manage inventory and fulfill orders accurately.

With FNSKUs, you can simplify your inventory management and get insight into your stock levels, sales, and returns.

How to get an FNSKU for your Amazon product 

Here’s how you can get an FNSKU for your product on Amazon: 

• Head over to your Amazon seller account and click on “Manage Inventory” in the “Inventory” section.
• Next, find the product you want to get an FNSKU for and click on “Edit” in the drop-down menu. 
• Next, select “Print Item Labels” and choose how many labels you want to print. Then, click on Print Item Labels.
• Once done, you will see a downloaded PDF with the FNSKU codes. You want to print these barcodes using black ink and non-reflective printing paper.
• Once done, apply the printed barcodes to your products and they are ready to be sent to Amazon fulfillment centers. 

‍

We will look at labeling and shipping requirements later in this article. 

Amazon barcodes: ASIN (Amazon Standard Identification Number) 

Amazon Standard Identification Number is a ten-character alphanumeric code assigned by Amazon to uniquely identify products listed on its platform. Just like FNSKUs, ASINs are specific to Amazon. Although ASINs are specific to Amazon, they are recognized internationally, which means that products sold on Amazon can be easily found and purchased by customers in different countries

Each product on the platform, regardless of its variations (such as size, color, or model), shares the same ASIN. This ensures that all variations of a product are linked together under a single identifier. 

You will find a product’s ASIN on its product detail page in the Product Information section of the page. 

FNSKU vs. ASIN

The Amazon Standard Identification Number (ASIN) and the Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit (FNSKU) are both unique identifiers used within Amazon. However, both Amazon barcodes serve different purposes. 

• While the ASIN is product-specific and used across Amazon's marketplace, the FNSKU is specific to FBA sellers. 
• When listing a product on Amazon, you will typically start with the ASIN. However, if you're using FBA, Amazon will assign an FNSKU to each variant of your product.
• The ASIN is primarily for product identification on Amazon, while the FNSKU is for inventory tracking and management within Amazon's fulfillment centers.

FNSKU vs. UPC 

UPCs are used widely in the retail industry while FNKSUs are specific to the Amazon marketplace. Here are some major differences between these two Amazon barcodes: 

‍

• As we mentioned, UPCs are universally recognized and can be used across any retail or online marketplace. On the other hand, FNSKUs are specific to Amazon and are used solely within its fulfillment network.
• UPCs are general product identifiers, while FNSKUs are used for inventory management on the Amazon marketplace. 
• While UPCs are used by manufacturers and distributors to label products for sale in different settings, FNSKUs are used by Amazon sellers to label products for shipment to Amazon's fulfillment centers. 

Amazon barcodes: Labeling and shipping guidelines 

Labeling guidelines for Amazon FBA 

As an Amazon seller, you will need to follow specific labeling guidelines to ensure that your products are properly identified and managed within Amazon's vast network of fulfillment centers. Here are a few labeling guidelines you should take note of: 

• Your product name must be clearly displayed on the label. This helps Amazon's fulfillment centers identify the product and its variations. 
• The product's condition (new, used, refurbished, etc.) must be indicated on the label. This is crucial for processing returns and refunds. 
• Labels must be placed on a flat surface of the product's exterior. They should not be placed on parts of the container that open, such as lids and box tops. There should be at least ¼ inch between the edges of the label and the edges of the container to ensure readability by scanners. 
• If a product has manufacturer barcode labels or carrier labels (such as UPCs, or EANs), the Amazon FBA label should include these. 
• All packaging materials must be new and clean, free of dirt and dust. Your packages should be strong and durable and should not have sharp edges or corners that could cause damage. 
• If selling cases instead of individual items, add a sticker stating “sold as set” or “This is a set. Do not separate.” on the outside of the case. For shipping boxes, include an address label or add a label with “Ready to Ship” or “Single item enclosed. 

Shipping guidelines for Amazon FBA 

Here are some general packaging requirements you need to follow to ensure smooth processing and acceptance of your inventory at fulfillment centers: 

• Ensure your products are prepared according to Amazon's guidelines and quality standards. This includes checking for any specific product category requirements.
• Each product variant must be labeled with an FNSKU (Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit) provided by Amazon.
• You will need to provide Amazon with details about the products you're sending, including quantities and how many are in each shipping box.
• Choose sturdy, appropriately sized boxes that protect your products during transit. Boxes should be new and clean, with no sharp edges or corners. Use at least two inches of cushioning material between items and inside the box to prevent damage during shipping. 
• Scannable barcodes should be covered or removed if reusing a retail box for different products.
• Pallets must be securely packed to ensure safety during transportation and upon arrival at Amazon fulfillment centers. Each pallet should be clearly marked with the shipment label, known as the FBA Box ID label, for quick identification and processing by Amazon.
• Use one address label with clear delivery and return information. This label is crucial for directing your shipment to the correct Amazon fulfillment center. 
• Amazon requires that shipping labels should be between 1 x 2 inches and 2 x 3 inches. This range ensures that the labels are readable by Amazon's scanning equipment.
• The paper used for printing labels should be compatible with the printer. You also need to use black ink and non-reflective paper to prevent any ray during printing. You also want to use high-quality printers to ensure that the labels are legible and scannable.

Mistakes to avoid with Amazon barcodes 

When dealing with Amazon barcodes, you want to avoid the following mistakes: 

1. Misunderstanding FNSKUs and ASINs

You want to avoid confusing FNSKUs and ASINs, as this can result in unscannable barcodes. FNSKUs are Amazon-specific and used for inventory management within Amazon's fulfillment centers, while ASINs are used to identify products across the Amazon marketplace. 

2. Missing essential labels

You want to avoid missing labels such as "Made in China," "Sold as a set," and suffocation warnings, as this can lead to compliance issues and even potential fines. Ensure that all necessary labels are present and correctly used. 

3. Using incorrect UPCs

Purchasing UPCs from third parties that do not match your products can cause significant issues when identifying your products. You want to use UPCs that accurately represent your products. We recommend getting your UPCs from a reliable source (GS1). If you buy UPCs from third parties, verify them through the official GS1 website to ensure they are valid. 

4. Using multiple scannable barcodes

Applying multiple barcodes that can be scanned, such as a UPC and FNSKU on the same unit, creates confusion and can affect the inventory management process. You want to ensure that each product variant has a unique FNSKU and, if relevant, a matching UPC. 

5. Using marketing materials on labels

You want to avoid placing marketing or promotional materials, such as discount coupons on product labels. This practice is against Amazon's policies and can lead to penalties. 

Final thoughts on Amazon barcodes 

Whether you're a new seller looking to set up your store or an experienced seller, Amazon barcodes play a critical role in identifying your products, managing inventory, and fulfilling orders. By familiarizing yourself with these barcodes, you can ensure that your products are easily discoverable and manageable on the Amazon marketplace. 

‍